Proof, Pairing & Pure Chaos with Chef Lamont and Todd

What happens when a chef and a mixologist start finishing each other’s…flavors?
Proof & Pairing happens, cocktail-first creations, wild creativity, and the most joyful culinary chaos you’ve ever heard.

In this episode of Ducking Realitea, I sit down with Todd and Chef Lamont of Proof & Pairing, a Bay Area-based cocktail-first food pairing experience that flips traditional food and drink pairings on their head. Instead of pairing cocktails with food, they build food around the drink, creating bold, creative flavor combinations rooted in mixology, culinary technique, and pure experimentation.

We get into their origin story in the Oakland hospitality scene, their work across private events, catering, and craft cocktails, and how their collaboration grew from industry connections into a full experience brand. From virtual cooking and cocktail classes during quarantine to high-end yacht parties and interactive tasting events, they’ve built something that blends fine dining, bartender culture, and experiential hospitality.

We also talk mixology vs. bartending, cocktail pairing vs. wine pairing, the rise of mocktails and non-alcoholic (NA) spirits, and how to create elevated drink experiences without losing that neighborhood bar energy. If you’re into craft cocktails, food pairing, culinary creativity, hospitality industry insights, or unique event experiences, this episode is packed with ideas, stories, and inspiration.

This one is hilarious, and insightful, a deep dive into cocktail culture, chef-driven food, and the creative process behind building unforgettable experiences.

Follow & connect with Proof & Pairing:
Proof & Pairing (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/proofandpairing/

Montperi Catering (Lamont Perriman): https://www.instagram.com/montpericatering/

New Alchemy Distilling: https://www.newalchemysf.com/

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More content, events, and chaos coming soon 👀